the autumn atelier

(4 nights at Château de Gudanes)

Gather, create and restore amidst the golden landscapes of the French Pyrenees

RESERVE

Date: 23 - 27 October 2026

Price: €2,600 per person

Discover the magic of art, old world craftsmanship and history with our immersive artisan led autumn atelier at Château de Gudanes. Embrace centuries-old traditional, French craftsmanship whilst experiencing the splendour of Château de Gudanes and the enchanting beauty of the French Pyrenees.

During this experience, we warmly invite you to learn centuries-old skills in an inspiring and historic setting by engaging in hands-on workshops led by Master Artisans.

Embroidery

Calligraphy

Painting

Cooking

Feather Crafts

“Rekindle your creative spirit and connect with the timeless beauty of traditional craftsmanship, surrounded by the idyllic ambiance of Château de Gudanes.”

THE VISION

The restoration of Château de Gudanes has always been about far more than the preservation of stone, timber and architecture. While the physical restoration of the château remains at its heart, our vision extends beyond the walls themselves — towards the revival of a forgotten way of life.

Through the restoration of historic interiors, traditional crafts, decorative arts, cuisine and the rituals of everyday living, we seek to honour the elegance, artistry and savoir-faire of centuries past. The château is not simply being restored as a monument to history, but gently reawakened as a living home where old-world traditions can once again be cherished, shared and celebrated.

The Autumn Atelier is an invitation to step into this vision — to slow down, reconnect with the beauty of handmade creations, and experience the timeless pleasures that have long been woven into the soul of château life.

“Beyond the restoration of a château lies the revival of a way of life.”

THE EXPERIENCE

Each day unfolds with a thoughtfully curated programme of embroidery, calligraphy, traditional French cooking and other time-honoured crafts, all guided by expert artisans and tutors. Whether you are discovering these skills for the very first time or are an accomplished maker seeking to deepen your practice, each atelier is designed to inspire and nurture creativity at every level. Throughout the stay, guests will also enjoy a selection of special seasonal workshops, including the creation of a traditional plumier and a fine feather quill, celebrating the enduring beauty of handwritten correspondence and centuries-old craftsmanship.

“A return to the elegance of slow creation, where every stitch, stroke and recipe tells a story.”

At the heart of each atelier are the remarkable artisans who generously share their knowledge, passion and time-honoured skills. United by a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship, they invite guests to slow down, create with intention and discover the enduring beauty of making by hand.

AN ARTISAN PROFILE

Nicolas Jover

Brodeur d’Art

Under the expert supervision of Brodeur d’Art, Nicolas Jover, each guest (if they wish) shall embroider a piece (brooch, bracelet or ornament) inspired by and designed specifically from the interior detail found in the gold gilded 18th Century Salon de Musique at the Château. 

Nicolas comes from a family who have specialised in embroidery since the 1700s. Trained at the Royal Academy of Embroidery, Nicolas gained a professional level in Haute Couture Embroidery and Interior Decoration Embroidery. He has worked for the worlds greatest artist embroidery houses and even for the Venice Carnavalet Museum and Carnival of Venice festival. 

The Rhythm of Château Life

This intimate Château Atelier welcomes a small group of guests, allowing each stay to unfold at a gentle pace with thoughtful attention, warmth and a true sense of belonging.

While each experience may include carefully curated activities and special moments, the greatest pleasure lies simply in being here — wandering through centuries of history, discovering the quiet beauty of the gardens, and embracing the peaceful rhythm of life within the Château.

guest quarters

Each Château bedroom welcomes you with antique beds dressed in vintage monogrammed linens, ruffled pillows, and floral sheets. Antique furnishings and heirlooms lend a refined, historic feel. Large windows frame sweeping views of the mountains and valleys.

Rooms are arranged for two guests (or three by request), with solo travellers paired thoughtfully—or given a private room if space allows. Each bedroom offers up to 70m² (775 ft²) of comfort and privacy.

Each guest shall be welcomed with their own antique, French double bed. Couples enjoy a king bed and private bedroom.

Electric blankets and heated radiators in each room shall be provided for warmth and comfort.

salle de bains

Château bathrooms blend 18th-century elegance with modern comfort, featuring classic fixtures, floral wallpaper, and plush towels.

Due to historic preservation rules, ensuite bathrooms aren’t permitted. To protect original interiors, all bathrooms are shared—but beautifully appointed. Each includes a shower, toilet, and basin; one features a freestanding bath for added indulgence. Bathrooms are located on the ground floor, along with two powder rooms (one upstairs, one down) for added convenience.

A nearby dressing area offers soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a vanity—ideal for hair, makeup, or quiet moments of preparation.

DINING

At the Château, autumn dining unfolds as a celebration of the season’s abundance — a time of warmth, gathering and simple pleasures shared around the table. Each day brings a new culinary experience, from leisurely breakfasts filled with freshly baked viennoiserie and local delicacies, to garden picnics beneath golden foliage, and elegant candlelit dinners as the evenings grow longer.

Inspired by the flavours of the French Pyrenees, the Château chefs create menus that honour the rhythm of the season, bringing together locally sourced ingredients, traditional recipes and the comforting elegance of French cuisine. From rustic family-style meals enjoyed in good company to refined dining experiences celebrating regional specialities, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to evoke the beauty, warmth and charm of autumn at the Château.

Our team is attentive to various dietary preferences and allergies, so don't hesitate to share any special requests or requirements.

A private selection of wines, sparkling wines, aperitifs, liquors, and refreshing beverages are offered during meals, including soft drinks, water, and our Chateau-made signature botanical syrups.

For those who enjoy a warm drink, we also offer a dedicated tea and coffee station through the day. Feel free to help yourself, just as you would in the comfort of your own home.

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE

Your château atelier begins with a warm welcome from midday. We invite you to arrive at Château de Gudanes from 12 noon, allowing you time to settle into your rooms, explore the château and begin embracing the gentle rhythm of your stay. A leisurely luncheon shall then be served at 1:00 pm, marking the beginning of our time together at the Château.

At the conclusion of your stay, we kindly ask guests to depart following breakfast, with check-out by 12 noon.

To ensure a seamless journey, our team is delighted to help assist with arranging transport to and from the Château. The nearest train station is located in the village, and we can assist with collection upon your arrival. Or, we can organise a private driver direct to the Château should you prefer a more tailored travel experience.

INCLUSIONS & amenities

The Autumn Atelier includes:

  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts) prepared by Chefs de Cuisine. Please kindly note: lunch and dinner only on the first day and breakfast only on the last day.

  • Unlimited Château beverages, including wine, spirits, local beer, and non-alcoholic options served with all meals.

  • Double-occupancy accommodation (or triple-occupancy upon request) with shared bathroom access.

  • All activities as per the itinerary for a curated experience.

  • Full use of Château amenities, including tennis, pickle ball, and Wi-Fi available in shared spaces.

  • Self serve laundry facilities.

    Please note: transport to and from the Château, flights, personal expenses, and travel insurance are not included.

payment & TRAVEL INSURANCE

To book, a 30% deposit is required via credit card in Euros. The remaining balance is due 30 days before your stay, with a payment link sent prior. You are able to pay in instalments, at your discretion, prior to the final payment date.

Full payment is required for bookings within 30 days of your selected stay.

Travel insurance is required for all guests.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

We kindly ask that you follow the link here to view the important terms and conditions of staying at Château de Gudanes and being part of the Autumn Atelier. Please note that by booking a place you are agreeing with these terms and conditions laid out.

MERCI BEAUCOUP

Should you you require any further information please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email at experience@chateaugudanes.com